In an effort to eradicate fraud, the Gauteng Department of Health and Social Development has taken drastic action against a social worker, Angela Langa who defrauded the system of over R70 000.
This follows a series of incidents where a social worker was claiming foster care grants by creating ghost beneficiaries using unemployed women as foster parents. Langa forged birth certificates and made false applications before the magistrate courts.
One of the unemployed women she was working with blew the whistle about the social worker’s illegal actions to the department. Upon this knowledge the department followed internal disciplinary procedures. Langa was found guilty and was struck off the practice for three years and the department recovered the R73 998 35 by attaching her pension fund.
The matter was also referred to the police and a criminal case was opened against Langa. She was found guilty at the Bronkhorstspruit Regional Court and is due to appear on 29 April 2010 for sentencing.
Warning public servants MEC Qedani Mahlangu said that the department will not tolerate corruption. “Extreme action will be taken against those found guilty of defrauding the department.” MEC added that these services are meant to benefit disadvantaged citizens and should not be abused.
Enquiries:
Mandla Sidu
Cell: 082 773 9013
Issued by: Department of Health and Social Development, Gauteng Provincial Government
15 April 2010
